September 2026
Journal of the Inland Waterways Association’s Milton Keynes Branch
YOUR BRANCH NEEDS YOU — SEE PAGES 2,3,15 FENNY FESTIVAL REPORT IMPROVEMENTS TO CRT’S RDP NEWS FROM BCS, B&MKWT AND WCT WCT MK CANALS: COLLABORATION PAYS OFF OFF The crowds turned out in force at the Linslade Canal Festival on a sunny 25 July, so the event retained its reputation for good weather. The usual mix of entertainers and charity, trading and catering stalls was there, although there were perhaps fewer trading boats than in previous years. Photo: Les Franklin. Registered Office: Hardy House, Northbridge Road, Berkhamsted, HP4 1EF Tel: 01494 783453 Web: https://www.waterways.org.uk A non-profit distributing company limited by guarantee. Registered in England no. 612245. Registered as a charity no.212342.
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Welcome to September 2026 Towpath Telegraph As this edition is being prepared, we are in the grip of the summer’s fifth heatwave. With water supplies depleted, breaches and other problems both near and far, the network is now very fragmented. See the CRT web site (address on the back page) which carries latest news. We hope you enjoy this edition.
Chairman’s Column Joining the Branch Committee Another friendly Fenny Festival Joining the Branch Committee Rodney Evans, 1934—2026 MK Canals: collaboration pays off Diary IWA webinars and recorded talks Wendover Canal Trust: restoration still paused IWA secures improvements to CRT’s Restoration Delivery Plan AECOM develops B&MKWT Business Plan B&MKWT news Buckingham Canal busy with Festivals The Editor’s Page Getting in touch with MK Branch
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Chairman’s Column
I have been reminded during these last summer months that this MK Branch has reached its 50th anniversary. To everybody past and present I extend thanks for their unstinting endeavours in making all its achievements happen. Every contribution, of whatever form, is vital in our belief that the waterways can and do contribute to our wellbeing. Their history is very much a part of our heritage and should be preserved wherever possible. However, whilst we may wish to recall former halcyon days, over the last few years the Committee of the IWA MK Branch has been aware of a slow decline in its membership, brought about for many reasons; surprisingly the pandemic had a minimal effect in this respect. As a Branch we are unable to readily detect the demographic change, but have our thoughts that changing lifestyles and increased risk-aversion (passive or active) are significant contributors. This decline has also manifested itself in significant reductions in members attending the events we have organised, including our monthly social evenings. By way of example, in April 2026 we held our usual Clean-up weekend along the Grand Union Canal through MK. Within the IWA membership, support from all but a few stalwarts was zero, with our main support coming from third party groups such as The Parks Trust, without whom we would not have been able to proceed. In August we held our Fenny Canalside Festival; again we had support from the same stalwarts and, despite a mailing to the Branch members, no additional offers of support. Furthermore, our effective landlords and masters, the Canal and River Trust, have substantially (and unilaterally) increased their fees for such events, making this festival event almost financially unviable. With the cessation of our lock-winding weekends at Three Locks it has been the Branch’s main fundraiser, but this is now in jeopardy. On top of all this, the existing Committee is not as young as it was and is at the point where all its members feel they are ready to step down, totally exhausted, both physically and mentally. Also, CRT’s significant reduction in routine towpath and bank maintenance has increased the bar regarding safety, especially amongst the less physically mobile, more reluctant to take that leap of faith between boat and canal bank, lock landing etc. Simply put, the future of the Branch is very much at risk. Once a few internal formal Page 2
Chairman’s Column—continued. approvals have been agreed, the reality is therefore that the Committee will shortly call an Extraordinary General Meeting to make the following proposals: 1. Seek to appoint a wholly new management committee to take the Branch forward 2. Failing which, it will be proposed that, with guidance of and agreement from the IWA’s Trustees, the Branch be closed and all assets transferred to other charitable concerns with waterway interests and/or to the IWA main funds. Details of any EGM and the resolutions proposed will be advised with the agreement of the IWA’s Trustees. This may include an additional option to retain the Branch, albeit in a dormant state, facilitating its possible future re-incarnation. There is still room to stage a rescue, but it will require a new Branch management team, so there is time for members to make their own proposals, and I should be pleased to have your thoughts and ideas. I do hope you will feel able to rally in support of the wish to see the Branch continue to provide a voice supporting the waterways in MK – a vital community asset. Please do reply, whatever your views; this will assist in judging the way to move ahead. May I add that in order to avoid inflammatory comments, please communicate with me by email only; your views will be confidential, and will not appear on social media without agreement. Our social calendar has been shortened as a result. At this stage it runs to December only, pending clarity on calling the EGM, its date and its outcome. I look forward to hearing from you.
Tim Armstrong, Branch Chairman.
Joining the Branch Committee New Branch Committee members (who should be paid-up IWA members) usually stand for election at an Annual General Meeting. Written nominations are not necessary, but candidates must agree to stand. They are elected for a three-year term, but may stand down at any time. After three years they retire by rotation and can seek re-election. New Committee members can also be co-opted at any time throughout the year, and are formally elected at the following AGM. Committee roles are assigned by agreement at the Branch Committee meeting following the AGM. The roles of Branch Chairman, Treasurer and Secretary must be taken by separate people. The Region Chairman is an ex-officio member of the Branch Committee. When possible, new Committee members are invited to “shadow” the former holders of Branch roles. A wealth of experience is available to help new members into a role. NonCommittee members can carry out Branch roles and even attend Committee meetings, but cannot vote. Frequency of Committee meetings varies among Branches; some meet every month, some only four times a year. Meetings can be held online, but at least two per year must be in person. Minutes are taken and circulated, and they include the date for the next meeting. Please consider putting yourself forward. Contact Tim Armstrong (contact details on the back page) for an informal discussion in the first instance. Page 3
Another friendly Fenny Festival Unbroken sunshine prevailed for the Branch's Fenny Stratford Canal Festival on 1 - 2 August. The usual mix of trading boats and land-based stalls were there.
The Community Boat Electra was there, offering return trips to Water Eaton. Returning from an early trip on the first day, Electra suddenly lost steerage way. Up came the weed hatch, and David Wolfson extracted a sizeable bundle of weed (right). Local artist Graham Pellow (our guest at January's Branch meeting) offered his paintings and greeting cards for sale. His demonstrations of "plein-air" (outdoor) painting aroused much interest (centre). The raffle did brisk trade, with jam-packed hampers, a trip aboard Electra and other prizes to be won. At the close on Sunday, tickets were drawn by Diane Witts and Graham Pellow (below). Winners were duly notified afterwards. Thanks go to all who helped make the event a success, whether organising, setting up and dismantling, or contributing prizes. Thanks are also due to Bletchley & Fenny Stratford Town Council for financial support. Fenny Stratford Neighbourhood Plan On the Saturday, we welcomed Councillor Ismail Hussein of Bletchley & Fenny Stratford Town Council, who set up an information point to publicise the Council's Neighbourhood Plan consultation. The Plan will reflect residents' views on future housing and other development, employment, regeneration, transport and community improvements. Cllr Hussein was especially keen that matters affecting the canal corridor should be included. The consultation ends on 14 September at 5pm. See https://www.bfsnp.org.uk/ Report and pictures: Les Franklin. Page 4
IWA responds to CRT CEO’s open letter to boaters With the drought now seriously affecting the network, CRT has issued an open letter from CEO Campbell Robb to licence holders. It echoes concerns IWA raised late last year in its Risk Index that first drew attention to drought risk. Campbell Robb acknowledges users' frustration at stoppages, water shortages, licensing and delays. In response, CRT is changing its planned maintenance to prioritise engineering work on routes with greatest numbers of boats and boating businesses, and water transfer obligations. He asks boaters to support CRT by conserving water. The key problem is funds. For decades, he says, "we have not been able to prioritise the most important things . . . [and] respond to the urgent things . . . before we add in changing patterns of use, the decline in government funding, hugely increasing costs of civil engineering projects . . . and climate change." Licence income is insufficient; CRT spends around four times this amount each year on things that help it to look after the network. CRT is considering how water management is prioritised, how big problems are addressed, and how decisions affect boaters and others. Also, CRT has brought all its customer-facing teams in one place. He acknowledges a widespread loss of trust, especially over licensing issues, but asserts that CRT is working on the recent Licensing Commission's recommendations, and that it has not made up its mind in advance of this process. There are also issues where the views of different stakeholders are almost impossible to reconcile. He states that he has a plan. Significant capital is to be released from reserves for improving the network and addressing climate change. CRT is seeking income from third parties for water transfer, drought and flooding resilience, and environmental protection. In a postscript dated August 2026, he thanks all who have responded to his open letter.
In his response on behalf of IWA, National Chairman Mike Wills thanks Campbell Robb for his frank explanation of CRT’s challenges. IWA would like to better understand his plan, and will support CRT, but this will not stop IWA saying when it thinks CRT have got it wrong. Among many concerns is that CRT should continue to protect the whole network, including the Pennine canals and the less popular canals. Closing navigations to support a smaller network would be unacceptable. He hopes that CRT will fully engage with IWA and all waterway users to achieve a thriving and navigable network, whatever the challenges. See Campbell Robb’s letter in full at:
https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/boating/an-open-letter-to-our-licence-holders-from-ceo-campbell-robb
IWA Bulletin, August 2026
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Rodney Evans, 1934 – 2026 On 25 June, Branch members joined family and friends at Crownhill for the funeral of Rodney Evans, who died on 30 May. Born in London to Roy Evans (a respected GP) and his wife Joyce, Rodney grew up in Epping alongside his sister Marion. He always looked back fondly upon his childhood. At seven, Rodney was sent to Charterhouse School, which did much to form his character. He took to school life enthusiastically, serving as Head of House, School Monitor, Commodore of Sailing, Captain of Fencing and Secretary of the Science Society. There he also developed a love of painting. He maintained links with the school throughout his life. During National Service with the Royal Navy, Rodney served aboard minesweepers. At Cambridge, he read Economics. A placement during his studies led to a post at Shell International, London. In 1959, Rodney moved to Foundry Services Ltd, later Foseco Minsep, (with interests in mineral extraction and metallurgy), where his career progressed through market research, consultancy, business intelligence, and financial public relations. Rodney became Group Management Director while also helping to found and eventually chair the Industrial Marketing Research Association. Rodney met Claire, a market research graduate, at a conference in Oxford. They married in 1965. Their son Gareth was born in 1967, and daughter Lynnette in 1969. A move to the National Economic Development Office in 1983 saw Rodney serving as Secretary to several Development Committees until the organisation closed in 1990. Claire sadly died in 1992 of a brain tumour. While washing dishes after a fundraising concert at the home where Claire had been cared for, he met Wendy (see appreciation, January TPT). In the semi-darkness of the pantry, he was immediately aware of Wendy’s Giorgio Armani perfume. Marriage to Wendy brought an extended family which Rodney embraced wholeheartedly. He ensured that Wendy never ran out of that scent! Rodney loved time on the water. He taught Gareth and Lynette to sail, and commissioned his own narrowboat, Alchera (Dream-time). In 1996, he and Wendy moved to their house in Fenny Stratford, with its canalside mooring. In due course they swapped Alchera for a second boat, Scythia. By 1997 Rodney was on IWA MK Branch Committee. He soon took up the Publicity role, and successively added the roles of Social Secretary (2001) and Bedford-MK Waterway Trust Reporter (2002). Meanwhile, with Wendy in charge of Branch Christmas entertainments, Rodney teamed up with Nick Carter as singing duo “Lockage and Leakage”, setting words on topical Branch affairs to their theme song “At Much Milton in the Keynes”. In 2012 the Branch arranged with British Waterways to adopt Fenny Stratford Lock and its surroundings, to do such tasks as painting, tidying, planting and grass cutting. Rodney was the scheme's first Co-ordinator, supervising this work and also encouraging adjacent landowners to improve their canal-facing properties. In 2016 Rodney retired from the Committee and from most of his roles, but continued off Committee as Adoption Scheme Coordinator until 2018. Since then he continued to take a lively interest in Branch affairs. Page 6
Rodney Evans—continued. In 2020, Scythia was reluctantly sold as advancing years made cruising more difficult. Rodney will be much missed for his wise counsel and quiet competence. As I was unable to attend Rodney’s funeral, I am indebted to Lynette Evans for forwarding the celebrant’s words from which much of the above was taken.—Ed.
MK Canals: collaboration pays off
MK Canals, successor to the Milton Keynes Canalside Forum but reconstituted in 2024 as a charity, has notched up an impressive list of achievements in little more than 18 months. A feature of its projects is the success with which it has collaborated with a variety of partners in defining objectives - some of which were inherited from the Forum - and in securing funding. Partners have included the Accessible Waterways Association, B&MK Waterway Trust, Bletchley & Fenny Stratford Town Council, Buckingham Canal Society, Canal & River Trust, MK Council, The Parks Trust and Wolverton & Greenleys Town Council. In 2025, a derelict area of towpath at Fenny Stratford was cleared and re-planted for biodiversity, with a community herb bed and heritage signage. A new electricity bollard and water point were installed, allowing the Community Boat Electra to extend its range south of the city (see TPT May 2025). A similar bollard at Wolverton Park followed, extending Electra's range northwards (see TPT January 2026). These facilities will soon be available to all craft for a fee. New accessible mooring bollards are being installed at these locations. Feedback from this project will influence the bollard design for a national rollout. Heritage signage has also been installed at Wolverton Park. In September, MK Canals is staging the Wolverton Park Canal & Rail Festival (see Diary page), a weekend of boats, trains, talks, stands, exhibitions, amusements and food celebrating the canal Above: Fenny Stratford towpath, before and and railway heritage of Wolverton. after. The charity is continuing its major project to create a history of Below: One of the electhe canals of Milton Keynes, based on a multi-generational ap- tric bollards. proach, and drawing upon sources such as authoritative histories, ephemera and local memories (see TPT September 2025). In partnership with Buckingham Canal Society and Bedford & Milton Keynes Waterway Trust, MK Canals is briefing MK City Council regarding water transfer schemes generally, and the Grand Union Water Transfer Scheme particularly. Working with The Parks Trust, MK Canals is creating a set of walking rings in Milton Keynes with circular walks to celebrate MK's 60th anniversary. Route guides for guests aboard Electra are also being prepared. More info at MK Canals web site: https://www.mkcanals.org/ Page 7
Diary Welcome to our new season of Branch meetings. Remember, non-members are always welcome. Our own events are in bold type; those organised by others are in regular type. Please note that traffic routes in Bletchley are currently subject to change—see notes below, and link for latest arrangements. At time of writing, these Princes Lidl Way instructions apply: store Rbt From V7 Saxon Street, near Bletchley Station, at Princes Way Roundabout (near Lidl store), turn off into Princes Way. After 50 yards, turn right into Albert St, then bear left at mini- Bletchley roundabout. P At end of Albert St, turn left into Queensway (now one-way). Bletchley Pass Oxford Street on left, then Social Club Brunel turn left into Bedford Street. 105 Queensway Rbt The Social Club car park is on MK2 2DN the right, behind the building. Also shown is the pedestrian route (10 minutes) from Bletchley Station. On leaving the car park, turn right into Bedford Street, crossing Cawkwell Way, then turn left into St Martin's Street. Continue to end, then turn right into Regent Street, then turn right into Albert Street. Continue to Princes Way, and turn left for Saxon Street. Traffic information, updated every few minutes, can be found at: https://one.network/en-gb Zoom in to Bletchley area, and click icons for detailed information. Saturday 12 September, 11am
Gyosei Art Trail Walk. Explore the beautiful and unique Gyosei Art Trail alongside the Grand Union Canal. Free, but please book at https://theparkstrust.digitickets.co.uk/event-tickets/78615 Car park, Japonica Lane, MK15 9EH Other Parks Trust events: see https://www.theparkstrust.com/events/
12-13 September
Canal and Rail Festival, Wolverton Park. Celebrating Wolverton's railway and canal stories. Trading boats and craft stalls (promoted by RTCA). Heritage boat trips, Scarecrow Festival, heritage talks and walks, and displays by local canal groups. Street food, pop-up bar and live music. Sunday 13, 12 noon, 2pm, 3pm: talk by David Wolfson: The Canal, the Railway and the birth of Wolverton. Part of Heritage Open Days 2026. Lonsdale, Wolverton Park, MK12 5FJ No on-street parking; please arrive on foot or by bike. More info: mkcanals.org/festival Note: IWA Head Office will attend; MK Branch members welcome.
Thurs 17 September, 7.45pm
IWA Milton Keynes Branch meeting: Waterway Curiosities, with John Pomfret. Lift bridges for railways, rolling bridges, transporter bridges, locks with three entrances (and which UK lock has 12 gates?), mines with underground canals, the Aegre and the Bore, Tom Puddings and much more. Not to be missed! Bletchley Social Club, 105 Queensway, Bletchley, MK2 2DN
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Diary—continued. Saturday 19 September, 10am onwards
IWA’s 67th Annual General Meeting. You can attend the sessions remotely as well as in person University of Worcester, St John’s Campus, Worcester, WR2 6AJ. More details at www.waterways.org.uk/agm
Saturday 26 September 2pm
Due to a leak, the restored section of the Wendover Arm has been severed by CRT’s dam, with no review until 2027 at the earliest. Show your support for re-opening the Arm—bring your boat to Bulbourne Junction for a photo-call, then smaller boats will try to navigate the Arm. More details: please email comms@waterways.org.uk
Thursday 15 October, 7.45pm Thursday 12 November 5.30pm
IWA Milton Keynes Branch meeting: Waterway Videos, with David Tucker. Bletchley Social Club, 105 Queensway, Bletchley, MK2 2DN Talk: Balancing Lakes and Wetlands in a water-wise city. Find out about the system of wetlands, balancing lakes and drainage systems that protect MK, and how The Parks Trust manages them. Adults and accompanied children aged 12 and over. Pre-book (£5pp) at: https://theparkstrust.digitickets.co.uk/event-tickets/72409 Howe Park Wood Education Centre, Exbury Lane, Tattenhoe, MK4 3GG
Thurs 19 November, 7.45pm
IWA Milton Keynes Branch meeting: Speaker: Kay Andrews; Subject to be announced. Bletchley Social Club, 105 Queensway, Bletchley, MK2 2DN
Thurs 17 December 7.45pm
IWA Milton Keynes Branch Christmas Social. Pre-booked ticket event, details to be announced. Bletchley Social Club, 105 Queensway, Bletchley, MK2 2DN
2027 Branch meetings will be announced in due course. Friday 29 January 2027 6pm
MK Canals talk: Speaker David Wolfson. Working title: Stony Stratford, Birthplace of the Grand Union Canal. Bull Hotel, 64 High St, Stony Stratford, MK11 1AQ Several free car parks nearby.
IWA webinars and recorded talks Many IWA Branches are still offering their “in person” meetings as Zoom webinars. For up-to-date details of most IWA events, please visit the main IWA events page at: https://www.waterways.org.uk/support/ways-to-get-involved/events See also IWA’s Youtube channel, with videos on various topics and recordings of past meetings: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ROBJ6rpm_41BSmu-Glf2Q Joining a webinar “live” is easy, using a desktop computer, tablet or smart phone. * Go to the events calendar via the link above. The webinars are listed in date order; each has a "Book now" link, which takes you to more details about the meeting. Click “Register now”. * Fill in the online form that appears, and click the "Register" button. You can do this well in advance of the start time. You should receive an email with a simple “Click here to join” link. * The webinar opens in your browser. For “live” webinars with audience participation, make sure that your camera and microphone are connected. If you are unable to join a meeting “live”, you can usually see previous webinars and video presentations at one of the addresses in this panel. Page 9
Wendover Canal Trust: Restoration still paused With restoration work still paused, Wendover Canal Trust continues to mark time. Chairman Clive Johnson reports that after February's work by WCT at its compound to enhance security, Canal & River Trust required accompanied access to the compound. The Trust was waiting for CRT's proposals following a meeting with them in April.
Meanwhile, WCT's Site Management team has reduced; Colin Heal has stepped down as Site Manager, and his predecessor Mikk Bradley has reduced the time he is able to give. Both have found working with CRT to be increasingly difficult. (But see opposite.—Ed.)
Canal lining work in 2012. Will restoration re-start soon? Photo: Les Franklin.
Beautiful pub with beer garden, located right by the canal in Fenny Stratford, Milton Keynes. Food served daily (except Tuesday), lunchtimes and evenings. Real ale available. Check out our social media pages for more information. 5% discount on food for IWA members. 11 Lock View Lane, Fenny Stratford, MK1 1BY Tel: 01908 372317 Email: philrallen245@gmail.com Web site: https://redlionfenny.co.uk Facebook: TheRedLionFennyLock Page 10
However, CRT is believed to recognise that it must strengthen its engagement with restoration groups nationally, and has announced that one of its engineers, Andrew Dobson, is to take on the national restoration role within their Restoration Delivery Plan. CRT has also announced that it will not seek to recover the costs of Andrew’s time for the first year. WCT plans to ask to meet Andrew very shortly. Meanwhile, CRT London & South East has confirmed that it will extend WCT's Licence Agreement to the end of December, although the terms are unclear as yet. The restored “Phase 1” section near Little Tring remains drained following leaks that were affecting neighbouring land. Due to funding constraints, CRT has not yet been able to carry out repairs, but it is understood that options for reopening this section are being considered. With few expenses being incurred at present, the Trust's financial position is stable. Funds stand at £441,000, including £428,000 on deposit earning interest. These funds would be sufficient for at least two years of restoration work, but with the current uncertainty it is impossible to predict when any work can resume. Although the Trust is overdue to review its membership rates, it has decided to leave them unchanged until restoration has restarted. Wendover Canal News, Summer 2026.
IWA secures improvements to CRT's Restoration Delivery Plan IWA has worked with Canal & River Trust (CRT) to help improve its revised Restoration Delivery Plan (RDP), which will provide the framework for future restoration of canals managed by the Trust. Commenting upon the revised Plan in August’s Restoration Bulletin, National Chairman Mike Wills said: “I am pleased to say that the revised CRT Restoration Delivery Plan is a significant achievement by IWA. The original version of the Plan was met with dismay, even hostility by most restoration societies. “CRT has worked with and listened to us and others, and has made changes to make the Plan more user-friendly and straightforward to implement. It demonstrates that there is clear benefit in collaboration and their significant change of attitude is reflected in the final version of the Plan which was accompanied by a statement as follows: ‘We warmly welcome the passion, commitment, and ambition that restoration groups bring to . . . returning [canals] to navigable use. Restoration can . . . reconnect communities with their waterways, protect heritage, create social and economic value, and bring neglected stretches of the network back to life. We share that vision and recognise the important role restoration can play in securing a stronger future for the canal network. Successful restoration is at its best when it is built on . . . clear planning and a shared understanding of what is needed to deliver lasting outcomes.’ “CRT has also confirmed that it will make no cost recovery from restoration promoters for their Senior Restoration Engineer’s time before 31 March 2027, and the implementation of the RDP will be reviewed with IWA and Restoration Groups in 12 months’ time. “As a critical friend to CRT, IWA has ensured, through constructive engagement with the Trust, that restoration receives the support and strategic priority it surely deserves. “CRT is resisting new financial commitments particularly on waterways restoration, which it does not see as a core objective. I, and others in IWA, have spent considerable time with CRT senior management to emphasise why restoration does need to be seen as such. We remain concerned that the Trust views restoration as a somewhat secondary priority. While we may not have secured everything we wanted, the result is a much-improved Plan. “IWA has helped move the Plan towards a more positive . . . and delivery-focused one that better reflects the ambitions expected of a major national charity. The discussions have also led to improvements in CRT's internal processes and a better mutual understanding of how restoration should be managed across the network. This needs to be matched by restoration groups becoming increasingly professional with construction work, engineering design and Health & Safety paperwork.” IWA believes this revised approach should act as a catalyst for raising standards across the restoration movement. IWA is well, if not uniquely, placed to provide guidance and practical assistance that restoration organisations need to deliver successful projects. Restoration is one of IWA's strategic priorities, and we will continue working with CRT, restoration grpups and others to help build a stronger, more successful restoration sector.
From IWA Restoration Bulletin, August 2026.
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AECOM develops B&MKWT Business Plan The Trust's 2026 Annual Partnership Conference was held on 15 May. Among other speakers, the Conference heard two speakers from AECOM, who have continued to develop the Trust’s Business Plan. Martha Newman, a Principal Engineer at AECOM, reported that a “Discovery Phase” has collated all information already available about the Waterway, including the documentation in the Trust’s library, discussion with interested parties, and a utility survey. This led to an Opportunities and Constraints Register, showing 70 opportunities for the Waterway, and 80 constraints to consider, specified by area. A GIS map has been developed which includes all the publicly available data sets, such as flooding, environmental information and local authority and parish boundaries, as well as a utility survey. Natalie Yum, Senior Environmental Economist at AECOM, spoke about the work on cataloguing the Waterway route's Natural Capital (elements of nature that have value to society, such as forests, fisheries, rivers, biodiversity, land and minerals), developing Nature-based Solutions (which seek to protect and restore ecosystems benefiting people and nature) and assessing Biodiversity Net Gain (which quantifies the extent to which development leaves nature in a better state than it was found). This work aims to strengthen the case for the Waterway by giving these potential gains monetary value, and suggests that the Waterway would provide around £84 million in benefits over 60 years, mainly from flood regulation and water supply, recreation and physical health. (I presume that this enhances AECOM's benefit-to-cost ratio (BCR) of 2.4, meaning that every £1 of building cost would return £2.40 in economic and social value, announced a year ago - see TPT September 2025 - Ed.) The Trust is able to commission AECOM’s work thanks to the funds raised by John Bunyan and Electra. Extensive winter repairs at Bedford lock were completed on 30 April. From Easter (early April) until then, John Bunyan operated on the lower river as far as Castle Mill lock. During this period, trips included a Family Eye-spy cruise, a Golden Wedding party, a schoolchildren’s trip, an afternoon tea cruise and a community group trip. John Bunyan is now back on the upper river, cruising through Bedford. On 5 May, Electra celebrated her 5th birthday since launch in 2021; Page 12
Work under way at Bedford Lock. Photo: B&MKWT.
B&MKWT news
since then she has run over 1,300 cruises, carrying over 12,000 guests. To celebrate, some of the longest standing volunteers were given a free return cruise from Great Linford Manor Park to New Bradwell. On returning to the park, a much larger group of volunteers gathered to celebrate. Jane Wolfson submitted a bid on Electra’s behalf for the Milton Keynes Foundation Charity Awards. The Foundation recognises exceptional people and organisations in the voluntary sector. Having reached Finalist position in two categories, ‘Environment and Transport’ and ‘Business for Good’, Electra won the ‘Business for Good’ award. John Best is leading continued work to mark the Waterway route with information boards and artworks, engaging with local community groups including the Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership. The Waterway will run close to the East-West railway line along much of its route, especially near Ridgmont station, where the Trust plans to install a new information board. The Trust is working with MK Canals and the Buckingham Canal Society to put together a case for a blue-green corridor running from Buckingham to Bedford. Milton Keynes City Council has shown increasing interest in the opportunity for water transfer from west to east with Milton Keynes at the centre. This could complement the Grand Union Canal Transfer Scheme. Simon Clewlow's Route Development Group has had productive meetings with council officers in Milton Keynes and Bedford, with Water Resources East and with other water-focused organisations.
From BMK News, July 2026.
ROVING NARROWBOAT WOBBLY FOOD AND DRINK FOR WALKERS AND BOATERS ON THE GRAND UNION CANAL Softserve ice cream and cold drinks. Tea, coffee, bacon sandwiches, and bacon, Brie and caramelised onion bagels. Cheeses, chutneys and fudge. Visit us at: facebook.com/narrowboatwobbly Track us at: tinyurl.com/narrowboatwobbly
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Buckingham Canal Society busy with Festivals On 27-28 June the BCS Marketing stall attended the Braunston Historic Boat Festival. Then our own Cosgrove Festival took place on 1819 July. Last year it rained, and this year we were worried in case it was too hot, but in the end the weather was fine. We had 25 boats booked into the Festival. A few dropped out due to breakdowns and other problems but those attending included the boats that have supported us over the years, such as Roger, the pair Raymond and Nutfield (above), and the regular roving boat traders. This year for the first time we had the Community Boat Electra giving trips, which proved very popular (below). Thanks to the fairly new mooring facilities at Wolverton, Electra’s range has now increased to include Cosgrove.
This year there was more space along the towpath for other stallholders, as CRT had removed some old stop planks. Other news: On 6 August, Sarah Bool, MP for South Northamptonshire (which covers Cosgrove), joined us for a site visit. She was taken to Bourton Meadow, and at Cosgrove she was shown the bridge built by our own volunteers. The Society's future plans were discussed with her. Terry Cavender has already had meetings with Callum Anderson, MP for Buckingham & Bletchley, and with Chris Curtis, MP for Milton Keynes North. Work parties continue at both Cosgrove and Bourton Meadow. On Sunday 13 September, we are taking part in a Heritage Open Days event where we are inviting people to come and discover the Buckingham Canal and take part in a self guided walk along the canal and all IWA Milton Keynes Branch members are welcome to join us then. Report: Athina Beckett; pictures: Alan Mynard. Page 14
The Editor’s Page It should come as little surprise to read Tim Armstrong’s Chairman’s Column in this edition, with the long-term vacancies that have appeared on the back page of all recent editions, and regular appeals for help. The Committee’s incumbent members now face a pressing need for new blood to come forward. We all understand the pressures of life at present: those in work and raising families often have little time to spare. But perhaps you are someone lately retired, with some IT savvy, good at organising, and looking for an outlet for your energy. If so, the Branch needs you! Please consider contacting Tim Armstrong at tim.armstrong@waterways.org.uk for an informal chat in the first instance. Can the Branch survive beyond its fiftieth year? A charter unveiled on 24 May asserts that the River Wye, from its Welsh source to the Severn, has legal rights as a living ecosystem. Campaigners hope that the charter will bolster efforts to save the Wye from pollution caused by poultry farming and sewage. The charter confers these rights: to flow and perform natural functions, to have biodiversity, to be free from pollution, to be supported by a healthy catchment, to regenerate, and to have representation. In England, the Sussex Ouse gained a similar rights charter last year. Rivers in Ecuador, Canada and New Zealand have also been accorded similar protection. I presume that these rights have been granted to rivers that no-one can be said to own, or whose protection is otherwise in doubt. Is there a case for seeking similar charters for navigable waterways whose ownership or futures are in doubt? Les Franklin, Editor.
NBWAKAMATANDOTO Wakamata NDoto is the floating home of Paul and Natasha, where we create a range of heritage crafts including canal art, signwriting and bespoke items, alongside small space storage solutions. We also stock a range of Miniml refillable eco -friendly cleaning products. All with an ethos of sustainability and upcycling. Visit us at facebook.com/nbwakamatandoto Place your order at nbwakamatandoto.com/shop Contact us at ndotokamata@gmail.com or 07866 741462
Canal art and signwriting
Small space storage solutions
Miniml eco-friendly cleaning products
Gifts and bespoke items
Page 15
Getting in touch with MK Branch Please read Tim Arm- Chairman: strong’s Chairman’s Column on Page 2-3, then consider putting your- Secretary: self forward to help run IWA Milton Keynes Treasurer: Branch. Tim would love to hear from you. Membership and Data Holder: Buckingham Canal Soc. Representative:
TIM ARMSTRONG tim.armstrong@waterways.org.uk DIANE WITTS diane.witts@waterways.org.uk GERRY WATERS gerry.waters@waterways.org.uk PETE BICKERS pete.bickers@waterways.org.uk ATHINA BECKETT athina.beckett@buckinghamcanal.org.uk
Trade Representative: JAMES GRIFFIN james@canalholidays.co.uk
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Committee member:
WESLEY HARRISON wesley.harrison@waterways.org.uk
Vice-Chairman
VACANT
Social Secretary:
DAVID TUCKER dt_boats@hotmail.com
Clean-up Supervisor:
VACANT
Education Officer:
VACANT
Webmaster and Social Media:
EMMA CASWELL (non-Committee) emma.caswell@waterways.org.uk
Planning Officer:
PETER CASWELL (non-Committee) peter.caswell@waterways.org.uk
Editor and Publicity:
LES FRANKLIN (non-Committee) les.franklin@waterways.org.uk
Fenny Lock Adoption Scheme:
MIKE HARPER (non-Committee) Contact via Diane Witts
NEW MEMBERS should receive a welcome contact from our Membership Secretary Pete Bickers. We very much hope to see you at our Branch meetings and other events—please introduce yourselves to one of our Committee members (those wearing IWA badges). Get the latest waterway news at these web sites. Addresses can change, but these were correct on 27 July 2026. IWA homepage: https://www.waterways.org.uk MK Branch pages: https://www.waterways.org.uk/waterways/branches/iwa-milton-keynes-branch MK Branch Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/iwamiltonkeynesbranch/ Canal and River Trust: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk Bedford-MK Waterway Trust: https://www.bmkwaterway.org Buckingham Canal Society: https://www.buckinghamcanal.org.uk MK Canals: https://www.mkcanals.org/ Wendover Canal Trust: https://wendovercanal.org.uk Friends of the Canal Museum: https://www.friendsofcanalmuseum.org.uk DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of The Inland Waterways Association or of the Milton Keynes Branch. They are however published as being of interest to members and readers.